McTarry, known professionally by the cryptonym M, was the fictional Head of the British Secret Service, "MI5". Portrayed by American film director and actor John Huston, the character appeared in the 1967 parody spy film, Casino Royale.
Biography[]
McTarry was the Head of the British secret service, "MI5", and a wealthy Scottish Laird. Attempting to enlist the services of the legendary retired spy Sir James Bond for their ongoing battle with the criminal organisation Smersh, McTarry travelled to Bond's estate as part of a joint Western-Soviet delegation. Despite their pleas and a missive from the Queen, the spy flatly turned down their offer. In an act of desperation McTarry enacted his "plan B" to destroy the estate with artillery fire and was killed in the bombardment. All that remained was his toupée, which Sir James attempted to return to his widow, Lady Fiona McTarry. After the sudden death of McTarry, a dozen female Smersh agents were dispatched incognito to the Laird's Scottish residence in a failed attempt to entrap the condolence-bearing Sir James.
Trivia[]
- The role is a cameo from John Huston, who directed the scenes set in Scotland, and at Bond's mansion.
- Despite holding the title of M, he is referred to repeatedly by his full surname (though his given name is not revealed). Aside from Bernard Lee's version of M being referenced by his first name in The Spy Who Loved Me, it would not be until Ralph Fiennes' Gareth Mallory takes on the position of M in Skyfall that the holder of the M title is again regularly referenced by their real name.
Gallery[]
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